Discover Tsoutsouros gorge, one of the many gorges in the Viannos area of South Crete. Abseil down this beautiful and technical canyon, suitable for beginners and anyone up for a challenge.
Begin your adventure with a short hike from the parking lot and reach the entrance to the canyon. From there, hear a short safety and equipment briefing before strapping up and entering the canyon. Start with short and easy abseils, ideal for getting used to the techniques and the use of the equipment. Gradually, take on longer and steeper abseils.
Admire the constantly changing terrain and seaview during your descent through the canyon. Depending on the weather conditions, you may come across water in the gorge until the beginning of summer. If so, have the incredible opportunity of abseiling through waterfalls.
The duration of the descent can vary from 3 to 4 hours depending on the experience of the group. After your abseil, head to the beautiful Tsoutsouros village.
Through this route you will have the opportunity to take a wine tour at a local winery with tasting and information on wine production from ancient times to the present day. Also enjoy the route which combines impressive mountains, a panoramic view of southern Crete, the impressive gorge with the incomparably beautiful waterfall Richtra and the charming beaches of southern Crete.
Starting from your hotel we head to the winery where the wine experts will introduce you to this special world of wine. You will have the opportunity to taste but also to learn all the secrets of production, of the varieties we have in Crete, as well as winemaking techniques of yesterday and today. Then we will cross a route through small traditional villages surrounded by verdant hills and olive groves. Just before our descent into the gorge we will make a photo stop at a spot with an incredibly beautiful panoramic view of the South Cretan sea that will amaze you!
Then we will head to the local gorge by a highly impressive off-road descent with continuous spectacular views amidst nature. The Portela Gorge which has an extremely unspoiled landscape that will be deeply etched in your memory as its river passes through cliffs and sheer cliffs, rich in both flora and fauna ending in the spectacular Richtra waterfall with flowing water until the spring that ends in Keratokampos.
Having enjoyed our walking exploration among this magical landscape we will be transferred to the beach of Tsoutsouros, where you will have enough time to enjoy both the crystal clear waters of southern Crete and a wonderful bbq lunch by the sea. This quiet and welcoming place will enchant you and the photos you will take will be impressive.
Full of unique memories and images we take the way back having visited unique places and having experienced life experiences!
Discover the magic of South Crete on a Self-Drive Private Jeep Safari in Convoy with our Brand New & Fully air conditioned 4X4 Dacia Duster. Shared or Private!
Feel the Off-road, Swim in the South, visit the local pottery workshop, create your ceramics and feel the authentic vibes of Crete! We start by exploring off the beaten paths through olive groves, traditional villages, scenic landscapes, and more! Then let’s uncover the art of pottery from ancient traditions to modern processes in the local workshop. We continue our adventure with an impressive off-road descent through the Gorge of Portela that is offering a breathtaking photo stop. Enjoy seaside driving along the Libyan Sea, Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Tsoutsouros beach and have your lunch by the sea. We end our day with panoramic views, letting the essence of Southern Crete captivate us! Take the wheel and let’s explore the South!
This tour gives you the opportunity to explore the real Crete in a small group.
We visit an olive oil factory to learn how olive oil is made now with modern machines and how used to be made in the olden days and of course we taste different kind of olive oil and honey.
Next stop is at the old village of Krasi where we go for a walk around the village to see the oldest plane tree in Crete which is estimated around 2000 years old then we are off to Lasithii plateau where we learn about the old wind mills that were used in the past to pump the water up for irrigation and the old wind mills that were used for grinding to make flour.
Now it’s time to go and {meet Zeus } at his cave , well actually we can’t promise that because last time we visited his birthplace he wasn’t there ( had a day off ) …….. so no promises.
Then we drive around Lasithii Plateau through old villages where time seems to have stopped then we visit a family restaurant to enjoy some Cretan traditional food ….and some local house wine….( or local beer…) well let’s be local just for a day or two….. maybe you like it ( maybe you don’t but give it a go …..)
After enjoying our lunch and wine ( or local beer) it’s time to hit the road to go back to your hotel where we picked you .
Listis, situated 69km southeast of Iraklion, is nestled between Kastri, 2km to its west, and Tsoutsouras. The beach stretch west of Listis, up to the Anapodaris river, is known as Kambala. This river is a significant wetland in Crete. Kamboula beach, with its charming pebbles and clear, blue waters, is quite a sight to behold. Though the area is not fully developed, a few accommodations have sprouted up in recent times. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking seclusion or wishing to sunbathe in the nude.
Contrary to the dry and warm surroundings, the Anapodaris river maintains water nearly all year round. Parts of the beach are dotted with tamarisk trees, providing much-needed shade. The beach is easily accessible, with the road connecting Kastri and Tsoutsouras running alongside it.
Dermatos, situated 64km southeast of Heraklion and 4km to the east of Tsoutsouras, is nestled in a valley on the western banks of Crete’s longest river, the Anapodaris. Evidence of a past Minoan settlement has been discovered in the area.
The beach at Dermatos, with its mix of pebbles and sand, offers an idyllic and tranquil spot for relaxation and solitude. Surrounding the beach are olive groves and tamarisk trees, adding to its remote charm. The shallow sea water, with its enchanting blue hue, enhances the serene atmosphere. To reach this secluded beach, take the paved road from Tsoutsouras heading west to Keratokambos. The road conveniently runs alongside the beach.
Listis, a charming beach tucked away 69km southeast of Iraklion, is nestled between the towns of Kastri, 2km to the west, and Tsoutsouras. The road that connects these two towns skirts the edge of the beach. To reach the beach itself, it’s necessary to navigate a steep slope. Alternatively, you can alight at the neighbouring Kamboula beach and stroll eastwards. Regardless of the route you choose, the destination is undeniably worth it.
Despite its modest size, Listis beach stands out as one of Crete’s most appealing. It’s an unmanaged location that can get crowded during peak season. The beach boasts sandy stretches and shallow, crystal clear waters. Its uniqueness lies in the large rocks scattered in the sea and along the shore. Even though the water is rocky, the sandy seabed is perfect for swimming and frolicking in the water. If you swim east of the beach, beyond the massive Listis rock, you’ll find a quaint sandy beach with a spring in the Xirokambi area.
Listis rock, rising above the beach, is home to several intriguing caves. According to local lore, these caves once sheltered a bandit, hence the name Listis, meaning bandit. The caves are easily accessible from the main road rather than from the beach. On the crest of the hill, remnants of an ancient sanctuary can be found.
The Pourgonero beach, situated in the Krassas region, is a mere 500m eastward from the Tsoutsouras port, extending beyond the eastern boundary of the settlement. It represents the eastern section of Tsoutsouras bay, and lies at the foot of the Sarakinos hill. Legend has it that this location holds the eternal burial place of King Minos, the fabled king of Knossos. The beachfront of Pourgonero comprises two coves with large sand dunes, and the beaches facing these dunes are a mix of rocks and sand. These secluded, peaceful spots are ideal for those seeking solitude.
The Pourgonero region holds significant importance as a nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles, with the nesting season running from May till fall. A visit to the beach in the late summer offers a view of the stunning white sand lilies, also referred to as the lilies of Knossos in Crete. Accessing the beach is fairly straightforward, given its proximity to Tsoutsouras. One simply needs to take the road towards Dermatos, and the dunes will be visible on the right. There are pedestrian paths leading down to the beach.
The Krassas region has the distinction of being the site of the first Aloe vera plantation in Greece.
No results available
Located 65km south of Heraklion and nestled on the eastern side of the rugged Asterousia Mountains, Agios Nikitas is a stunning monastery that was once a hermitage for monks from Koudoumas Monastery. Perched atop a high hill, it offers breathtaking views of the Libyan Sea. The monastery’s church, which is dedicated to St. Nikitas (celebrated on September 15), is housed in a cave and dates back to 1640.
Within the church, visitors can admire ancient frescoes and a smoke-stained roof – a testament to the attacks by the Turks. Engravings from past visitors can also be found here. Additionally, a small stalactite in the sanctuary produces water, which is then shared with pilgrims as holy water. The monastery is believed to be miraculous and is home to hospitable monks who are always eager to share the monastery’s wonders, as well as offer coffee and fruit to visitors. Overnight stays in the cells are also possible.
Agios Nikitas serves as a verdant oasis amid the arid landscape of the Asterousia Mountains. The area’s dry climate allows for the growth of mango and avocado trees in the monastery’s gardens.
The Agia Moni (Holy Monastery) is situated approximately 60km east of Heraklion and 38km west of Ierapetra, close to Kavoussi Gorge. It is reachable through a brief road that begins at Ano Viannos and traverses a lush landscape.
Functioning as a male monastery, Agia Moni is small and ancient. The Monastery’s church, featuring a striking gate, is dedicated to the Assumption (celebrated on August 15). Surrounding the church are the monks’ quarters.
While the exact date of its establishment is uncertain, tradition holds that it was constructed by three Cypriot nuns who initially built the church of Agios Dimitrios in Keratokambos. Due to ongoing pirate attacks, they were compelled to relocate to the mainland, where they established Agia Moni at its present location. It is also believed that one of these nuns founded the Panagia Keralimeniotisa monastery near Psari Forada.
The Arvi Monastery is situated near the Arvi Gorge, atop a high vantage point with stunning views of the sea. Currently abandoned, the remaining monks’ cells provide a glimpse into its history.
It is thought that the monastery was initially constructed on the remnants of the ancient Temple of Arvian Zeus, located in the valley formed at the exit of the Arvi Gorge. However, due to the formation of marshes in the valley, it was eventually relocated to its present elevated location.
Within the monastery grounds, there are two churches – one quite old and the other relatively new – both dedicated to Saint Anthony.
No results available
No results available
No results available
A few kilometres west of Tsoutsouras gorge in the eastern Asterousia range, you’ll find the smaller and narrower Troulla gorge. Though it’s shorter than the Tsoutsouros canyon, it has captivated the hearts of canyoners with its over 15 stunning waterfalls, the tallest reaching 15m. Its close proximity to the Tsoutsouras Canyon makes its geological features similar. It was endearingly named Tsoutsouraki, meaning small Tsoutsouras, by the first group to traverse it.
The entrance to the gorge is situated just west of a remarkable rock known as Troulla near Tsoutsouras, at a location called Meli Lakos (Honey’s Pit). The exit is located in the area of Staoussa, adjacent to the village. Descending the gorge requires technical canyoning equipment, particularly during the winter when the waterfalls are in full flow.
Situated in the eastern region of the Asterousia range, the Tsoutsouras Canyon is nestled within the Tsoutsouras area. This canyon is one of the many inaccessible ones in the region, initiating at the Sfakias position and culminating near the Larinaki area, close to the settlement. The sight of it can be quite breathtaking at first glance.
Despite its relatively short length of 1.5km, the Tsoutsouras Canyon serves as an excellent training ground for those new to canyoning. It’s a technical gorge, implying that the only way to navigate it is through the use of canyoning ropes. There are 12 descents or rappels within the canyon, with the highest one towering at 30m.
The majority of these rappels are found near the canyon’s exit, where the gorge deepens and the rocks display a stunning array of colors. During spring, the presence of water enhances the experience of rappelling down the waterfalls, making it truly unforgettable.
The Mindris Gorge, starting near Filippi village and ending at the Tsoutsouras port, spans a length of 6km. It’s an open canyon with no vertical walls and a riverbed that dries up in the summer, making it easy to traverse. Along the riverside, remnants of ancient settlements from the Minoan to Roman Era have been discovered.
One can start their hiking journey from the road that links Kasteliana and Tsoutsouras. This route takes you through the riverbed of the Myndris River, where carob trees are predominant. Midway through the canyon, at Perdikoneri, you’ll find a spring with drinkable water.
In the vicinity of the canyon and near Tsoutsouras, archaeologists have unearthed signs of the ancient town of Inatos, including Roman Baths, a trail, and several other structures dating back to the Minoan era.
The Portela Gorge, positioned in the southern region of the Heraklion prefecture, serves as a drainage channel for the Ano Viannos basin, directing water towards the South Cretan Sea. The gateway to this gorge is situated at the Hondros village, and it leads out to Keratokambos. It ranks among Greece’s most perilous canyons, only to be traversed by seasoned canyoners. Particularly after heavy rainfall, the gorge can prove lethal. However, a passable trail and road run alongside the gorge, stretching from Hondros to Keratokambos, but they lack the allure of the canyon’s interior.
This gorge is a blend of beauty and wilderness, earning it legendary status in the region and ranking it among Crete’s most popular canyoning locations, alongside Ha and Arvi. It boasts the greatest water volume during winter and early spring compared to other local gorges. The canyon features 25 technical descents with the highest being 30m, and a 340m altitude difference between the entrance and exit. Owing to the area’s inaccessibility, locals are primarily familiar with the last waterfall, Richtra, at the gorge’s exit, which can be reached without any equipment.
Five faults intersect the canyon, contributing to its formation along with gully erosion. These faults divide Portela into three sections, resulting in a rich variety of plants and landscapes. A unique feature of this canyon is the abundance of mud it holds, possibly due to the “Viannos” rock formation visible before the gorge. This formation contains large amounts of clay, which is carried into the canyon by the water flow. The gorge’s signature feature is the stunning Sifoni, a large waterfall in a sinkhole, the “bottom” of which has been opened, allowing the waters to continue their journey.
Set in Tsoútsouros and only 200 metres from Aliori Beach, Orionas offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This holiday home provides air-conditioned accommodation with a patio.
The holiday home with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a barbecue. If you would like to discover the area, cycling and walking tours are possible in the surroundings and Orionas can arrange a car rental service.
Tsoutsouras Beach is 1.1 km from the accommodation, while Pera Tsoutsouras Beach is 2.1 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 53 km from Orionas, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony, VILLA PETRINO is situated in Tsoútsouros. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and free private parking.
With free WiFi, this 3-bedroom villa features a flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with an oven and fridge. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Staff at the villa are always available to provide advice at the reception.
VILLA PETRINO offers a picnic area. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy fishing nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Popular points of interest near VILLA PETRINO include Aliori Beach, Tsoutsouras Beach and Pera Tsoutsouras Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 53 km from the villa.
from
€131
/night
Within a 10-minute walk from the beach, Portela Apartments Kastri is located in the village of Keratokambos. Offering free WiFi access, the self-catered apartments and studios provide views of the mountain and Libyan Sea from their balcony.
Spacious and bright, the accommodation units consist of an open-plan seating, dining and kitchenette area. Each includes air conditioning, a flat-screen satellite TV and hairdryer.
A minimarket and various restaurants are conveniently located just 300 metres from Portela Apartments Kastri. It is 36 km from the seaside village of Myrtos and 52 km from Ierapetra Village. Heraklion City is 62 km away.
Located in Keratokampos, 1 km from Keratokampos Beach and 2.6 km from Armenopetra Beach, Breathtaking sea view flat for families in Crete offers a garden and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
The apartment offers an outdoor fireplace. A a baby safety gate is also available for guests at Breathtaking sea view flat for families in Crete.
Nikos Kazantzakis Museum is 46 km from the accommodation, while Acqua Plus Waterpark is 48 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 58 km from Breathtaking sea view flat for families in Crete.
from
€193
/night
Connect with thousands of Crete visitors and boost your bookings.
© All rights reserved. Crete Locals
